A prayer for peace on eve of U.S. elections
'Twas the night before Election Day. Are you ready?
There can be a lot of fear and anger around elections. When I drive through the town of Manteo, North Carolina, I see some of the fear and anger represented in a seemingly increasing number of homemade political signs along the road. You likely see similar signs where you live.
Tensions are high as we approach Election Day 2024. On the eve of the U.S. elections, I felt it appropriate to share a prayer written by Alicia Searl for a peaceful election.
Almighty Father, we are so thankful that we live in a country that allows us the ability to choose our political leaders. As we head into another presidential election, and we sense the tension, we ask that You put a hedge of protection around each candidate, as well as their families. Please guard their hearts and grant them wisdom as they develop plans and policies for our beloved nation. We also recognize that we need Your mercy and grace. We come before You heartbroken and concerned for the fate of our nation. We desperately need You.
Please forgive us where we have failed and help us turn from our selfish ways. Give us a bold faith to live in a way that honors and glorifies You. We trust in Your plan, Lord, and know that it holds a greater purpose. So, with that, we find comfort in You alone, no matter the outcome of this election. We will continue to walk in humility and grace as we remain faithful, seek Your wisdom, and promote peace. We love our nation and trust that You will offer a pathway forward that embraces hope and peace. Amen.
First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
1 Timothy 2:1-2
The wait is almost over, my friends. It won’t be long before the political text messages and divisive TV ads stop. Latch onto as many positives as you can in the coming days and possibly months.
Let all bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.
Ephesians 4:31-32
